The $23.4 Million Question

[nsxt2000]

Here is a question- Is it worth $23.4 million for being left a quadriplegic after an accident?

A California jury has awarded a woman $23.4 million in a civil judgement against Ford Motor Company for a 2007 freeway accident that left her a quadirplegic. Cynthia Castillo lost control of her 1997 Ford Explorer when the thread separated from her left-rear tire as she drove on the freeway. Flaws in the vehicle's design caused it to lose control when the tire tread separated.

So actually there are two questions posed-
A. Is $23.4 million a fair settlement for a design flaw inflicting such damage?
B. If possible, would you trade $23.4 million for the loss of your body?

My take on the first question is that if I were the victim, without a doubt I would think it reasonable, or even expect more. As an outsider I have a bit more reservation concerning it, but in the end still probably agree, especially when the attorney gets his cut, taxes, etc. come into play.

As for the second question - I would have to be much older and in much worse health to even consider trading in effect most of your remaining life for even such an amount as $23.4 million.

Anyone else have any thoughts???
-Mike S.